In some much-needed good news, ICE, in coordination with 14 federal, state, and local partners, arrested over 650 illegal aliens in West Virginia from January 5 to 19 during a statewide operation without protests. Daring teams targeted cities including Charleston, Martinsburg, Beckley, Moorefield, Morgantown, and Huntington. Arrests included threats to public safety and national security, plus those who entered illegally.
ICE pointed to the arrest of Indian national Sagar Singh, who was previously ordered to be removed, and arrested for vehicle infractions under Operation ICE Wall, and Chinese national Ling Yan, who was convicted of child endangerment. Officials praised partnerships for enhancing safety. Jefferson County Sheriff lauded agents’ professionalism and the removal of criminals.
Breaking down the situation, ERO Philadelphia acting Field Office Director Michael Rose noted, “This operation demonstrates how strong partnerships between ICE and West Virginia law enforcement agencies enhance public safety and the integrity of our immigration system.”
Building on this point, he added, “By training and supporting our 287(g) partners across the state, we’ve expanded local capacity to identify, arrest, and process illegal aliens while ensuring these authorities are exercised professionally and consistent with the law.”
Jefferson County Sheriff Tom Hansen reacted, “The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office has just completed a two-week operation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement,” adding, “The Sheriff’s Office was impressed with the professionalism and work ethic of the agents and how well they interacted with the citizens and local law enforcement officers.
“Working with such a high-caliber group of agents who were assigned to Jefferson County made the decision to support the initiative worthwhile. We are also gratified that through this program, we have had the opportunity to remove numerous dangerous criminals from our community,” he added to wrap up his remarks.
Gov. Patrick Morrisey declared that he was thrilled with the operation, asserting, “I want to thank the men and women of ICE for their outstanding partnership with various state entities, including the State Police, and their tireless work here in West Virginia.”
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“Through our collaboration under the 287(g) program, they have removed dangerous illegal immigrants from our communities and made our state safer for families and law-abiding citizens,” the Republican explained, “After years of Biden’s reckless border policies putting the public at risk, it is encouraging to work with President Trump and ICE to secure our homeland and deliver real results for West Virginians.”
Likewise, the U.S. Attorney for the District of West Virginia, Matthew L. Harvey, quipped, “This operation, which resulted in 650 arrests, reflects the strength of collaboration among local, state, and federal partners. I am proud to stand alongside our law enforcement agencies to ensure federal laws are enforced, and justice is served.”
Rounding out the comments, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of West Virginia Moore Capito added, “The dedication shown by our state and local law enforcement partners during this operation reflects the very best of West Virginia.”
“This operation resulted in the removal of more than 650 individuals who were in violation of federal law. I’m proud to stand alongside our law enforcement partners as we continue to protect our communities and maintain the integrity of our nation’s system of laws,” he concluded.
Watch Tom Homan call out Democrats for putting ICE agents at risk here: